GLEN: Joan Burton TD made a critical contribution to LGBT Equality‏

GLEN has paid tribute to the former Tanáiste and Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton TD., as she stepped down as Leader of the Labour Party.

“As Tánaiste and Leader of the Labour Party, Joan Burton provided critically important leadership on LGBT equality issues throughout the last Government which was one of the most progressive Governments in the history of the State for LGBT people, bringing forward the Marriage Referendum, Gender Recognition Legislation and Family legislation that fully included LGBT headed families” said GLEN Co-Chair, Kieran Rose.

As Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton brought in Gender Recognition Legislation in 2015, which made Ireland only the fourth country in the world to provide for self-declaration for gender recognition.

“Deputy Joan Burton has been a staunch ally and a consistent defender of LGBT rights over many years in the Oireachtas and in Government. Ms. Burton has left a far-reaching legacy for LGBT people during her time as Labour Party leader and as Tánaiste – a legacy which impacts on the lives of every LGBT person in Ireland and their families” said Rose.

“Her role in the marriage referendum campaign and in advancement of LGBT rights in Ireland has been very significant and we in GLEN wish her well on her retirement as Labour Party Leader. Deputy Burton remains a member of Dáil Éireann and we look forward to continuing to work with her on ensuring that LGBT people are full and equal participants in all aspects of Irish society” concluded Rose.

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